At a Glance

Rich history, weird science and boatload of fun are waiting for you and your grandchild on this Intergenerational adventure in Canada’s largest city. See everything from dinosaurs to whirlpools to butterflies as you explore Toronto’s unique culture as well as the world famous Niagara Falls. Ride rollercoasters, carousels and waterslides as you explore Canada’s Wonderland, Canada’s first and largest theme park.

Activity Level

Outdoor: No Sweat

Walking two miles on city streets; use of public transit, stairs to access subway.

Small Group

Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 10 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you'll ...

Experience Chinatown and Kensington Market in new ways as you race around their vibrant and historic streets on a scavenger hunt.

See Jurassic goliaths as you visit the Royal Ontario Museum, home of Gordo the Barosaurus who stands 90 feet tall.

Get your feet wet as you ride through the spray of over 600,000 gallons of water crashing down a second at Niagara Falls.

General Notes

Program is for grandchildren ages 9-13.

Suggested Reading List

View 21 books

Faster than the Wind

by Steve Pitt

It is 1900, and 14-year-old Bertie McCross is a newspaper boy in downtown Toronto. Berties family has fallen on hard times and can use every penny he brings home from hawking newspapers on the frigid streets. However, in order to do that Bertie has to keep out of the clutches of the Kelly Gang, a family of slightly older Cabbagetown toughs who are shaking down "newsies."
On Christmas Eve, Bertie is almost cornered by the Kellys but is saved by Tommy Fry and Milwaukee Ed, who introduce Bertie to the thrills of iceboat racing on Lake Ontario. Soon Bertie is swept up in the fast and dangerous sport and meets a whole crew of new friends, including Isobel, a girl from a wealthy family with a mansion on Jarvis Street. The continued pursuit by the Kelly Gang, a plunge into freezing harbour water, and the clash of classes all lead up to a spine-tingling race to end all races.

Holling's captivating tale introduces youngsters to the geography and history of North America through the story of a young Indian boy and the toy canoe he launches on a journey from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic.

Rosie's Dream Cape

by Zelda Freedman

Based on a true story, this charming juvenile novel tells of how eleven-year-old Rosie and her grandmother Bubba Sarah arrive in Toronto from Russia after fleeing one of the purges that carried away Rosie's mother, a famous Russian dancer. To help make ends meet, Rosie works in Yitzy's factory sewing velvet capes for Eatons, all the while dreaming of making such a cape from scraps, and wearing it to Toronto's Royal Alexandra Theatre. Although Yitzy warns Rosie, "don't steal the scraps," she cannot resist, and each evening when she dumps the scraps in the garbage, she hides the best ones in her apron. This tale provides a wonderful insight into how an immigrant child survives with her values and dreams intact despite the harsh working conditions of a 1921 garment factory

The Incredible Journey

by Sheila Burnford

Instinct told them that the way home lay to the west. And so the doughty young Labrador retriever, the roguish bull terrier and the indomitable Siamese set out through the Canadian wilderness. Separately, they would soon have died. But, together, the three house pets faced starvation, exposure, and wild forest animals to make their way home to the family they love. The Incredible Journey is one of the great children's stories of all time--and has been popular ever since its debut in 1961.

Meticulously researched and entertaining, this history of Niagara Falls captures the sideshow atmosphere of the place with its honky-tonk attractions and daredevil feats. An engrossing social history.

In the Skin of Lion

by Michael Ondaatje

Bristling with intelligence and shimmering with romance, this novel tests the boundary between history and myth. Patrick Lewis arrives in Toronto in the 1920s and earns his living searching for a vanished millionaire and tunneling beneath Lake Ontario. In the course of his adventures, Patrick's life intersects with those of characters who reappear in Ondaatje's Booker Prize-winning The English Patient.

Sixth in a series of illustrated primers on riverways around the word for ages 9-12, this is also a nice introduction for the family.

The Star Supper

by Troon Harrison

December 1914: Millie is looking forward to a beautiful Victorian Christmas, just as usual. With her father away fighting in the war, she is especially determined to keep holiday traditions alive during this time of turmoil. Although Christmas will be anything but “as usual” this year. With the unexpected arrival of Molly and Feather as well as some new faces, everyone has differing opinions on how Christmas should be celebrated. Will all of Millie’s perfect plans be dashed? Will this be the worst Christmas ever?

From politics to transportation, public health to sports, historian Allan Levine explores four centuries of Toronto's history, introducing the forces and faces that shaped the city's multi-faceted identity.

Wayne Grady showcases the nature and ecology of the Great Lakes, hub of industry and agriculture and home to 40 million people, in this illustrated portrait of the region, including its geological formation, conservation challenges, forests and resources. With hundreds of color photographs and illustrations by Emily Damstra.

Geared for ages 9-12, this charming guide to the people, places, animals and ecology of the Great Lakes includes short stories, poems, essays and historical accounts.

I Am Algonquin: An Algonquin Quest Novel

by Rick Revelle

This book paints a vivid picture of the original peoples of North America before the arrival of Europeans. The novel follows the story of Mahingan and his family as they live the traditional Algonquin way of life in what is now Ontario in the early fourteenth century. Along the way we learn about the search for moose and the dramatic rare woodland buffalo hunt, conflicts with other Native nations, and the dangers of wolves and wolverines. We also witness the violent game of lacrosse, the terror of a forest fire, and the rituals that allow Algonquin boys to be declared full-grown men.
But warfare is also part of their lives, and signs point to a defining conflict between Mahingan’s nation, its allies the Omàmiwinini (Algonquin), Ouendat (Huron), and the Nippissing against the Haudenosaunee (Iroquois). The battle’s aftermath may open the door to future journeys by Mahingan and his followers.

This political and environmental history looks at the defining episodes of the St. Lawrence Seaway megaproject, from the complex diplomatic negotiations between the US and Canada to its lasting impact on transnational relations.

Winner of the Booker Prize in 2000, this hauntingly beautiful novel interweaves two disparate strands: one, a murder mystery set in Toronto at the close of WWII; the other, the text of the murdered woman's science fiction novel, which may hold a clue to her death.

An omnibus edition of Fifth Business (1970), The Manticore (1972) and World of Wonders (1975). Noteworthy for their faultless prose, memorable characters and trenchant humor, these novels follow the fate of three youths in Ontario.

All the Broken Things

by Kathryn Kuitenbrouwer

September, 1983. Fourteen-year-old Bo, a boat person from Vietnam, lives in a small house in the Junction neighbourhood of Toronto with his mother, Thao, and his four-year-old sister, who was born severely disfigured from the effects of Agent Orange. Named Orange, she is the family secret; Thao keeps her hidden away, and when Bo's not at school or getting into fights on the street, he cares for her.
One day a carnival worker and bear trainer, Gerry, sees Bo in a streetfight, and recruits him for the bear wrestling circuit, eventually giving him his own cub to train. This opens up a new world for Bo--but then Gerry's boss, Max, begins pursuing Thao with an eye on Orange for his travelling freak show. When Bo wakes up one night to find the house empty, he knows he and his cub, Bear, are truly alone. Together they set off on an extraordinary journey through the streets of Toronto and High Park. Awake at night, boy and bear form a unique and powerful bond. When Bo emerges from the park to search for his sister, he discovers a new way of seeing Orange, himself and the world around them.
All the Broken Things is a spellbinding novel, at once melancholy and hopeful, about the peculiarities that divide us and bring us together, and the human capacity for love and acceptance.

Afternoon: Arrive to multicultural Toronto and transfer to the hotel. Program Registration. 4:00-5:00 p.m. Come meet our group leader in the lobby and get your welcome packet. If you arrive late, please ask for your packet when you check in and the front desk will be happy to help you.

Dinner: At the hotel, we’ll have a welcome dinner

Evening: We’ll begin our evening with an orientation session where we’ll get to know each other as well as review the up-to-date program schedule and any changes. We’ll go over important information as well as have time for questions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars or settle in for the night. You may also wish to explore what the city has to offer. The hotel is located in the heart of Toronto, surrounded by shops, restaurants, movie theatres, and within walking distance to the Ed Mirvish Theatre, the Toronto Police Museum, and the escape game room Roundabout.

DAY

2

Kensington Market, Chinatown Scavenger Hunt, Harbour Cruise

Toronto, ON

B,L,D

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

Activity note: Walking up to 2 miles, on pavement, stairs; about 3 hours; boarding/disembarking boat. Harbour boat trip is aboard the Oriole, a Great Lakes Steamship replica, all 76 feet have been decorated with the perfect blend of varnished woods, wrought iron, polished brass and plush upholstery. The two wrought iron staircases lead to the canopied upper deck where guests can enjoy music while romancing the skyline from the comfort of one of her many varnished benches. We will be using public transit today.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Learn about Toronto's history and some of the city's most vibrant and culturally diverse neighbourhoods from a local expert before going out to explore on foot. Gain an appreciation and understanding of the 20th century immigrant experience, and the importance of Kensington Market and Chinatown in the development of modern-day Toronto's incredible cultural diversity. Set off to discover some of Toronto’s most colorful and culturally rich neighborhoods. A scavenger hunt through these eclectic and multicultural neighborhoods will help participants young and old learn about the area in a fun and interactive way. We begin our urban adventure at Kensington Market, from there it’s a short walk to a bustling and colorful Chinatown. Here, we’ll explore the history of the Chinese community in Toronto; Jewish and Eastern European immigration and history; fine art, graffiti art and murals, moose on rooftops, a famous King who lived here, and some of the best places to eat and shop. Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities in the world and celebrates over 100 different cultures with over 180 languages spoken.

Lunch: At a local restaurant.

Afternoon: Embark on a boat trip to experience Toronto Harbour from water. We will explore Toronto Harbour on a relaxing cruise and view the city's breathtaking skyline including Harbourfront, CN Tower, SkyDome, Air Canada Centre, Toronto Islands, and the fabled Gibraltar Point Lighthouse.

Dinner: We’ll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant

Evening: At leisure. If you wish, you may enjoy the on-site facilities. Kids of all ages love the Eaton Chelsea! The Family Fun Zone features the Kid Centre, pool and the 130-foot "Corkscrew", downtown Toronto’s only indoor waterslide and other supervised activities.

DAY

3

Toronto Culinary Extravaganza, Canada's Wonderland

Toronto, ON

B,L,D

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

Activity note: Walking up to 2 miles, on paved, busy streets, about 3 hours for morning activity; some stairs, public transit. Walking at Wonderland on mostly pavement, boardwalks, distance based on personal preference. We will be staying at Canada's Wonderland until after the light show ends at 10:30 p.m. The water park at Canada's Wonderland closes at 7:00 p.m. Coach travel approximately 2 hours; about 90 miles.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Head out to explore the history and flavors of Canadian cuisine in this culinary extravaganza linking back to the neighborhood and market walk earlier in the program. Experience Toronto’s food culture on this fun, full of life tasting tour with a local expert. Sample some international flavors alongside some good old fashioned Canadian classics like Beaver Tails, Poutine, and Canadian Back Bacon. Along the way participants will be introduced to some of the interesting tidbits (and Timbits®) about historical and recent happenings surrounding food in this lively city. We will end our foodie foray at historic St. Lawrence Market, considered by Food and Wine magazine to be one of the world's 25 best food markets, located in the heart of historic Old Town Toronto.

Lunch: Lunch at the market.

Afternoon: This afternoon we'll head out to Wonderland. Canada's first and largest theme park. Canada's Wonderland features over 200 attractions, 68 thrilling rides, North America's greatest variety of roller coasters, Splash Works, a 20-acre water park and live shows. Leviathan, one of the world's biggest and tallest roller coasters was unveiled in 2012. Dinosaurs Alive!, is a new interactive dinosaur park where over 40 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs are set in an outdoor Jurassic themed environment.

Dinner: Dinner at Canada's Wonderland.

Evening: Finish the evening with a starlight spectacular light and fountain show that starts at 10:00 p.m. near the mountain. NOTE: Depart by coach for the return to the hotel; arrive at the hotel about 11:30 p.m.

DAY

4

Royal Ontario Museum, Dinosaurs, Free Afternoon

Toronto, ON

B

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

Activity note: Walking up to 1.5 miles, about 3 hours, on pavement and in museum, some stairs. We will be using public transit today.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: Explore an exceptional array of themed galleries at the Royal Ontario Museum, spanning both world cultures and natural history. With six million objects in the ROM's collections, there's something new to discover around every corner. Travel coast to coast through the exhibits, discovering the rich history of Canada and its natural wonders. From dinosaurs discovered in the Badlands of Alberta to the legacy of Canada's First Peoples and more. Our experience begins behind-the-scenes in a private room with an expert from the ROM and dozens of Canadian artifacts from the vaults. Touch and discuss the artifacts in an environment that encourages collaboration and group discussion. Then embark on an expert-led adventure in the Museum's galleries; experience the diversity of this great country and discover what makes the ROM like no other museum. Imagine life when dinos roamed the earth at the Age of Dinosaurs exhibit and explore one of the world’s best dinosaur collections. Hundreds of specimens await visitors in the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, ranging from insects and fossilized plants, to Canada’s largest dinosaur on permanent display, Gordo the Barosaurus, who clocks in at an impressive 27 metres (90 feet). Participants may also recognize the Stegosaurus, Tyrannosaurus rex, Triceratops, Deinonychus, and the popular Hadrosaur specimens, Parasaurolophus and Maiasaura.

Lunch: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Afternoon: Free Time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Dinner: Dinner on your own to sample from the wide array of dining options Toronto has to offer. There is a restaurant to suit every taste. A list of restaurant options will be provided or visit www.dine.to for suggestions.

DAY

5

Voyage to the Falls, Whirlpool Aero Car, Niagara-on-the-Lake

Toronto, ON

B,L,D

Chelsea Hotel, Toronto

Activity note: Getting on/off boat. Driving 195 miles over 4 hours. Walking 1 mile over the course of the day. Boat ride is approximately 30 minutes on large sight-seeing boat, specially designed for the falls.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel

Morning: This morning we head to Niagara Falls. Soar the Great Gorge, high above the racing Niagara River on the Whirlpool Aero Car. We'll be transported through the air in an antique cable car, while far below the torrent of water abruptly changes direction and creates one of the world’s most mesmerizing natural phenomena – the Niagara Whirlpool. Sometimes frightening and always unforgettable! Experience the water, power and mist of one of Canada’s natural wonders - Niagara Falls. We will get up-close and personal on a new state-of-the-art catamaran boat tour “Voyage To The Falls”. We will travel from the Canadian docks at the base of the Great Gorge, past the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls and the awesome up-close and personal connection with the thundering water, awesome power and amazing mist of the mighty Horseshoe Falls!

Lunch: Enjoy lunch at a local café

Afternoon: We will visit the Butterfly Conservatory, this magical place features over 2,000 colorful tropical butterflies floating freely among lush, exotic blossoms and greenery. Paths wind through the rainforest setting, past a pond and waterfall and the Emergence window, where butterflies leave their pupae and prepare to take their first flight! Set in the spectacular Niagara region between the shores of Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, Niagara-on-the-Lake is situated in an area rich in culture, history and natural beauty. The surrounding countryside is beautifully patterned with orchards and vineyards. Drive through Queenston Heights and see some of the famous battlefields of the War of 1812. The first impression of Niagara-on-the-Lake is Old World charm and breathtaking pastoral beauty. We will stop at an ice cream shoppe to indulge in a treat. Free time to explore Niagara-on-the-Lake, the town that has won the award for “Prettiest Town in Canada” and taken second place as “Prettiest Town in the World.”

Dinner: At Elements on the Falls in Niagara Falls we will have our farewell dinner before returning by to Toronto.

DAY

6

Program Concludes

Toronto, ON

B

Activity note: Check-out is 11:00 a.m.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel. Program concludes

Morning: We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Please join our Facebook page and share photos of your program. Visit us at www.facebook.com/rsadventures. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Meals

12 Meals

5 Breakfasts

3 Lunches

4 Dinners

The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Gluten Free

Lodging

Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.

The Chelsea – Canada’s largest hotel – offers a variety of options in guestrooms and meeting space. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto and within walking distance of College subway station, the city’s central business district and government offices the hotel is also minutes from the city’s best shopping districts (including the Toronto Eaton Centre), Yonge-Dundas Square, fantastic live theatre, vibrant nightlife and exciting attractions. Show Your Key and Save on selected tours, museums and shops. We have been recognized as the “Best Family Hotel in the GTA (Greater Toronto Area)” from the readers of City Parent Magazine. Being chosen seven times by the readers, we have become a Gold Member of the Hall of Fame.

Visiting Toronto Canada with my 13 year old grandson on the intergenerational trip was wonderful. Sharing time with a grandchild, along with other grandparents doing the same thing, makes for a "camp" atmosphere. We saw lots of things and did many things and enjoyed it immensely

We were part of a terrific group of grandparents and grandchildren. The hotel was great for the kids, swimming, waterslide. All activities were appropriate except for the amusement park (too far away and limited interest). The Museum, the Markets, Niagara, all were fabulous and the kids enjoyed. More walking and stairs than expected.

Toronto is a very exciting City. There's so much to see and do. This program gave us the opportunity to explore and learn and have lots of fun too. We highly recommend it to other grandparents and their grandkids.

We recently returned from our intergenerational trip to Toronto and wanted to share highlights from our wonderful program. Our 12 year old grandson was one of 10 youngsters in our group and he thoroughly enjoyed the new experiences, especially riding the roller coasters at Canada’s Wonderland and the ride on the Whirlpool Aero Car which took us high above the racing Niagara River in an antique cable car over the Niagara River. My husband and I enjoyed those sites as well and particularly liked dining at the Elements overlooking the Falls on our last night. Our tour guide, Chris, couldn’t have been more helpful and was truly engaged in guiding the young people and adults as we explored many of Toronto’s unique offerings. One caveat: bring your walking shoes as this program’s activity level meets and/or exceeds the 2 miles daily walking described by Road Scholar.

The trip to Canada gave my granddaughter an international travel experience without going too far from the US. We listed numerous differences between both countries, experienced going through Customs and obtaining a passport. The activities are fun for both generations.